Description
The Maverick 88 Youth 20 Gauge 22″ Vent Rib Camo is a purpose-built scattergun for young hunters and smaller-framed shooters who need a dependable, easy-handling pump action for the field. Chambered in 20 gauge with a 22-inch vent-rib barrel and a Mossy Oak Treestand synthetic stock, this shotgun weighs just over 5 pounds and measures a compact 42 inches overall—perfect for carrying through thick cover or swinging on a fast-flushing covey. Per Maverick Arms specs, the receiver and barrel wear a blued finish for corrosion resistance, and the gun ships with a modified Accu-Choke tube installed. Dual extractors and twin action bars deliver smooth, positive cycling, while the anti-jam elevator keeps the action feeding reliably even when you’re working the pump fast. At $304.21, it’s an affordable entry point for a young wing-shooter or anyone looking for a lightweight, no-nonsense bird gun.
| Manufacturer | Maverick Arms |
|---|---|
| Model | 88 Youth All-Purpose |
| Material | Synthetic stock, steel barrel and receiver (per manufacturer specs) |
| Compatibility | 20 Gauge only; accepts Accu-Choke tubes |
| Finish | Blued receiver and barrel; Mossy Oak Treestand camo stock |
| Weight | Approximately 5.5 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- 22-Inch Vent-Rib Barrel: Why it matters—shorter barrel makes the gun quick to point and swing, ideal for young shooters and tight-cover bird hunting, while the vent rib gives a clear sight plane for accurate shot placement.
- Mossy Oak Treestand Synthetic Stock: Why it matters—the camo pattern blends into most southern timber and field edges, and the synthetic material shrugs off rain, mud, and sweat without swelling or cracking.
- Dual Extractors and Twin Action Bars: Why it matters—these features reduce binding and ensure the action cycles smoothly even when you’re running the pump fast or shooting light target loads, which is critical for a youth gun.
- Anti-Jam Elevator: Why it matters—the elevator prevents shells from hanging up during feeding, so a young shooter can focus on the bird instead of clearing a jam.
- Cross-Bolt Safety and Accu-Choke System: Why it matters—the cross-bolt is simple to operate with either hand, and the included modified choke gives a good balance of pattern density and spread for doves and quail.
Who It’s For
This shotgun is built for the young hunter just starting out—maybe your son or daughter who’s ready to step up from a .410 to a 20 gauge. It’s also a fine fit for anyone with a smaller frame who wants a lightweight, low-recoil pump for upland birds, rabbits, or even informal clay shooting. If you spend most of your time in a dove field or walking a cornfield edge, the compact length and camo stock will serve you well.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Lightweight and easy to carry all day; smooth, reliable pump action; affordable price point; accepts common Accu-Choke tubes for pattern flexibility; Mossy Oak camo stock looks good in the field.
- Cons: The blued finish is prone to rust if neglected after wet hunts—keep it oiled; the synthetic stock feels a bit hollow compared to walnut, but it’s durable and weatherproof.
Comparison
| Feature | Maverick 88 Youth 20 Gauge | Mossberg 500 Bantam 20 Gauge | Remington 870 Express Compact 20 Gauge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 22 inches | 22 inches | 21 inches |
| Stock Material | Synthetic, Mossy Oak Treestand | Synthetic, black or camo | Synthetic, black |
| Weight | ~5.5 lbs | ~5.75 lbs | ~6 lbs |
| Choke System | Accu-Choke (mod included) | Accu-Choke (mod included) | Rem Choke (mod included) |
| Price | $304.21 | ~$400 | ~$450 |
| Action Bars | Twin action bars | Twin action bars | Single action bar |
| Safety | Cross-bolt | Tang safety | Cross-bolt |
The Maverick 88 Youth gives you the same basic action as the Mossberg 500 Bantam at a lower price, though the 500 has a tang safety some prefer. The Remington 870 Compact is heavier and costs more, but its single action bar can be less smooth than the twin bars on the Maverick. For a youth hunter on a budget, the Maverick 88 is a smart choice.
FAQ
What choke tubes does the Maverick 88 Youth 20 Gauge use?
It uses Accu-Choke tubes, which are the same pattern as Mossberg 500 Accu-Choke models. A modified tube is included with the gun.
Is this shotgun suitable for left-handed shooters?
Yes, the cross-bolt safety is ambidextrous and easy to operate from either shoulder. The ejection port is on the right side, but many left-handed shooters run it without issue.
What is the overall length of the Maverick 88 Youth?
Overall length is approximately 42 inches, and the barrel is 22 inches. That makes it compact enough for young shooters and tight cover.
Can I use this shotgun for turkey hunting?
Yes, with an appropriate turkey choke tube and heavy loads, it works fine for spring gobblers. The camo stock and lightweight design are pluses in the woods.
Does the Maverick 88 Youth come with a case or lock?
No case is included, but it ships with a cable lock for safe storage. You’ll want to pick up a soft case for transport and storage.
✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
✓ Ships 1-2 business days
✓ 30-day returns
✓ Secure checkout
See more in our Pump Action Shotguns, Youth Shotguns, and 20 Gauge Shotguns categories.
Last updated: April 2026
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